Review: SALOMON OUTpath GORE-TEX® SALOMON hiking shoes have evolved dramatically! I asked him directly why

Speaking of SALOMON, it is a mega brand with passionate fans all over the world, boasting a reputation in Japan, from adventure racing in the past to trail running, from trail running to such a popular world that no one knows about in the off-road running racing world.

On the other hand, it seems that surprisingly few people know that this brand is a brand that also works hard on hiking shoes and authentic mountaineering boots. This site features X ULTRA 2 MID in hiking boot comparison review However, I liked the comfort I put on, but to be honest, I felt that if I wanted to pursue even harsher situations like myself, I felt that the strength would be a little lacking.

SALOMON hiking shoes have evolved without you realising! I asked directly why

I've heard that SALOMON has developed a groundbreaking hiking shoe that has recently become so eye-opener. If you've heard that much, you can't help but try it. went out into the field wearing newly released OUTpath GORE-TEX® (OUTpath fall The more I put them on, the more I became more comfortable, and I fell in love with them as a member of the starting lineup, which is now an indispensable part of everyday life, not only for normal hiking.

So, I'll start reviewing these latest lightweight hiking shoes with a variety of talents from a multi-faceted perspective.

This review provides detailed explanations from both manufacturers and users, including impressions that have been tried out in the field, as well as the company's hiking shoe lineup, suggesting the best usage situation for each, with the cooperation of not only the author but also the SALOMON product staff.

If you've been interested in these shoes, or if you're currently looking for a recommended hiking shoe, please take a look.

General features

A next-generation hiking shoe that combines lightness, grip performance and durability that meets the demands of a variety of activities in the outdoor field. A new material that is lightweight and highly abrasion resistant is crimped without seams, making it the lightest hiking shoe for less than 350g per shoe. It gives you the freedom to travel lightly along the trail. In addition, this pair of shoes will expand your outdoor potential, with a sophisticated design, including the SENSIFIT™ upper structure with an excellent fit that wraps around the entire foot, the Contagrip® Premium Wet Traction, which provides grip even in wet rocks, and the protection of the toes and heels that maintain lightness and flexibility, but not compromise protection performance, and the latest technology to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities.

OUTpath GORE-TEX®

SALOMON

19,440 yen

335g (27cm)

Recommended points

• A sophisticated design that you wouldn't expect from a mountaineering boot
• The enveloping upper fit and hold
• Despite being one of the best among hiking shoes, it is well protected
• A sole with excellent shock absorption and grip performance
• Quick lace that allows you to put on and take off with just one touch

Points that interest me

• Hardness of upper fabric (the fabric becomes softer and more comfortable as you use it)
• Quick Race Storage (Solved)

Item appearance

Main Specifications and OGZ Original Review

Detailed review

In this review, we tested the Bonooriyama (Shiratanizawa to Takinohira Ridge Course), where you can try out a variety of trails in Okutama, including streams, rocks, gravel, and tree roots, while alternately comparing XA PRO 3D GORE-TEX® (hereinafter referred to as XA) and X ULTRA 2 GORE-TEX® (hereinafter referred to as XULTRA) hiking shoes that have already been released in addition to OUTpath.

A sophisticated design that you wouldn't expect from a mountaineering boot

At first glance, in a good way, is this the climbing shoes? The simple and sophisticated design that will make you think of it will catch your eye. I've shown these shoes to many different people, including myself, but I've never met anyone who first saw them and discovered that they were "hiking boots." The sharp silhouette, elegant texture, minimalist surface with no seams, and the quality of the luxurious colours can only be said to have been born in 2017, when the boundary between outdoor wear and streetwear is fading even more. The sophisticated design blends in with any scene, both in the city and in the field. By the way, for now, it's still very popular at mountaineering stores.

I asked the person in charge about the secret!

Stylish design that blends in with the city and the field

Originally, SALOMON's design concept has been firmly rooted in its philosophy of emphasizing "functional beauty" in which functions are expressed in a way that makes them understandable. The fundamental principle of making this feature look beautiful even today remains the same, but with some recent models, including OUTpath, we have adopted a new concept that combines functional beauty that suits active scenes and design that stands out even in more calm scenes, with new users in mind, focusing on new users who enjoy the city and outdoors in an undistinguishable manner.

A perfect fit that gently wraps around your feet without any gaps

The exquisite fit of SALOMON hiking shoes has been experienced with X ULTRA I remember that it was very good compared to shoes from other manufacturers. This is based on the unique upper technology "SENSIFIT™" that works in conjunction with the shoelaces to tighten the entire foot around the sole of the foot, providing an outstanding fit.

This outstanding sense of unity is still alive and well in this model. The fit that expands from the moment you put your feet in, and the comfort that the entire foot is wrapped in no gaps when you tighten your shoelaces, felt higher than the XA and X ULTRA

I asked the person in charge about the secret!

"SENSIFIT™" is the basic concept of all shoes created by SALOMON.

"SENSIFIT™" is the technology that forms the foundation of SALOMON's shoemaking, and all models, from ski boots and snowboarding to hiking shoes, are made with this concept. It is designed to keep your feet in the most natural fit (as seen as hand wrapped as shown in the photo) and keep you in keeping with and against any movement of any activity.

In addition, OUTpath is wrapped in textiles using no thread and no crimping technology, so there is also a focus on improving the fit due to the stretchability of the fabric. Furthermore, the shoelaces pattern is tightened from the base of the thumb, just like the XA This will increase the manufacturing process, but this shoe is a very focused on fit and we use this structure.

If you felt that the OUTpath

That's why the upper fabric is a bit of a concern.

One thing that caught my eye was the exquisite fit of the entire crimped fabric, and the size around the instep feels a little tighter than the other two XA and X ULTRA People with extremely wide feet or high insteps should be careful. Furthermore, although this fine upper fabric is stretchy, it is slightly firmer than other models. The creases in the fabric that occur when bent toes may be a bit off, so some people may be concerned about it.

It's one of the lightest hiking shoes! Despite this, adequate protection

When hiking in light clothing such as fast packing, the lightness of shoes is an essential element to make walking easier. The weight of 335g (27cm) is one of the most lightweight models that are known as waterproof hiking shoes, and of course they are perfect for the lightness of the driving experience. I didn't feel unnecessary fatigue even when I ran through the trail like a trail running shoe.

Of course, hiking and other mountain climbing shoes are not just light. This is because climbing boots that deal not only with paved roads but also with a variety of terrain such as gravel roads, rocky areas, muddy, trees, and moss, are essential to protect your feet from sharp objects and impacts. This is the big difference from speed-focused activities like trail runs.

There is no exaggeration about OUTpath At first glance, the outer circumference is neat and sloppy, but the toes and heels are reinforced using high-grade crimping techniques. the XA and X ULTRA , which have a TPU-reinforced outer circumference , it is surprising that it has rigidity that is hard to imagine with a lighter shoe and provides protection similar to that of a typical climbing shoe.

Of course, it's GORE-TEX®, so it's also waterproof. The tongue is integrated, so it is difficult for gravel to enter to some extent.

I asked the person in charge about the secret!

In order to achieve the concept of this shoe, "multi-purpose and easy to use," we have paid particular attention to its lightness. Among these, SALOMON has excellent crimping technology cultivated through the development of skis and ski shoes. By making the most of this, we were able to eliminate waste to the limit, which greatly contributed to reducing the weight.

XA and X ULTRA have thick TPU material placed throughout the shoe as protection , are tougher, but OUTpath is not as strong as these two, it takes into consideration the maximum protection possible by crimping only textiles.

A sole with excellent shock absorption and grip performance

Addictive fluffy feeling!

One of the biggest reasons why these shoes seem like a waste for hiking, or rather, I would rather wear them every day is the luxurious feel of them being placed on the feet thanks to their high shock absorbing power.

At first glance, it doesn't look like a "thick sole," but when you wear it, you can take each step while feeling a comfortable cushion that looks like you're sitting on a cushion. However, it is too soft and does not cause the landing or stepping on. It combines moderate flexibility and shock absorbing power, not only supports stepping in, but also provides solid protection against thrusts from the ground even when descending with lots of pointy rocks and pebbles. Thanks to this, even after walking all day, the damage to the soles of the feet was minimal.

It's not slippery even on wet rocks!

What's even more surprising is the excellent grip of this shoe. This is the biggest factor that caused me to change the image I had with SALOMON to 180° this time. The "Contagrip® Premium Wet Traction" used in this model is an outsole designed to provide stable grip even in wet rocky ridges.

When comparing them from an angle, you can see a deeper and wider lug pattern overall compared to other models.

This further enhances grip on wet rocky areas and makes it less slippery. This is a perfect await for Japanese fields, where people often walk over wet terrain, such as wet forests and crossing branches.

I asked the person in charge about the secret!

*Reference: Overall structure of XA PRO 3D GORE-TEX® sole

Shoes that are mainly designed for mountainous areas such as XA and X ULTRA in the case of OUTpath, that is not included . This makes the shoes lighter, making them more flexible and more sensitive to the pressure (sensation) on the soles of their feet easier to move. is a feature of OUTpath designed to be used for a variety of purposes other than walking, climbing, or descending, such as placing your feet on a motorcycle or placing your feet on a wet area

So, compared to the other two models, is it a disadvantage against twisting and thrusts?The midsole makes the most of its trail running technology to review the EVA (cushion) formulation, and the thrusts from below are distributed.

The "Contagrip® Premium Wet Traction" is an outer sole used in SALOMON's top models, which maximizes grip on wet rocks, etc. The lug pattern has been developed by adding a V-shaped pattern on the outside of the forefoot to capture not only walking but also vertical and horizontal movements. Also, since there is no shank, the rug can be deepened without compromising the delicateness of the soles of the feet, which has led to the impression that it is resistant to rough roads.

Quick lace that allows you to put on and take off with just one touch

This model also features the classic quick lace shoes from SALOMON. It has been around for many years since its release, and although it has been written about its convenience, it is easy to tighten and loosen. The great thing about climbing is that the tightness of the climbing and descent is that it can be operated quickly, which is a major advantage. Furthermore, it's great that you can easily tie it up even while wearing gloves in early spring or early winter. In recent models, pockets are placed in the tongue, so you can store your shoes smartly without wandering around while you're on the move after tightening your laces.

However, this quick lace is a bit troublesome to push all the strings into the pocket after tightening them. Are there any tricks to store it?

I asked the person in charge about the secret!

So I was taught how to quickly set up a quick race.

1. Pull around the middle to tighten the first half. This procedure is not required, but especially for people with high insteps, it is difficult to tighten evenly, so it is a surefire way to do it (it will fit in with the whole thing once you start walking).

2. Pull the tip to tighten the entire piece, and secure it with a cord lock.

3. Push the handle of the string into the pocket first (it doesn't have to be all inside at this point).

4. Push the cord lock into the pocket.

5. FINISH. There are two rings of strings, but with this amount, you don't have to worry about them getting caught, and it's just right, making it easier to pull out of the pocket.

Summary: The three SALOMON hiking shoes brothers want to use in these situations!

OUTpath GORE-TEX®: For anyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors in a light and stylish way

This versatile and extremely easy-to-use outdoor shoe is ultra-lightweight, yet highly grip, comfort and stability that can accommodate a variety of terrain and a variety of movements, making it a versatile and extremely easy-to-use outdoor shoe that has the potential to not fit into the frame of a hiking shoe. With this pair, you can easily jump out into the outdoors from the front door without any thought, as long as it's not too heavy in a snow-free place, such as light hiking and fast packing, for example, bikes, cross-country, parasailing, pack rafting, etc. The light walking experience and sophisticated design make it a great choice for traveling around towns, historic sites, and nature without barriers. However, when comparing the three models, the high fit and slim, minimalist construction may make some people feel cramped. Naturally, people will find their feet differently differently, so be sure to try them on and check them out.

For product details and inquiries, please also check the SALOMON official website

OUTpath GORE-TEX®

SALOMON

19,440 yen

335g (27cm)

It should naturally be noted that more robust climbing boots are advantageous when long-distance activities are burdensome and long-term. OUTpath PRO GORE-TEX® model of the same series, which has ankle protection . It also provides high support and responds to more serious activities. According to the person inside, this ankle support is not only protective, but also has the effect of stimulating the ankle muscles, increasing muscle response and increasing hold.

OUTpath PRO GORE-TEX®

SALOMON

23,760 yen

396g

XA PRO 3D GORE-TEX®: For those who want to walk safely no matter how tough the terrain

The XA , which was released about 15 years ago and became a popular model after an adventure race that overcame a variety of terrain, is the big brother of OUTpath The tough construction provides a sense of security in a wide range of situations, including harsher situations, the grip strength is strong even on rough roads, and the stability of the sole that can withstand stronger loads is proven by its long-standing track record of being loved by professionals such as racers and mountain rescues. In terms of being able to accommodate a variety of activities with the premise of high durability, it gives a strong impression in scenes where there are longer distances or high loads. In that sense, it can be said to be a model that is safe and easy for everyone to wear.

XA PRO 3D GORE-TEX®

SALOMON

18,360 yen

385g

X ULTRA 2 GORE-TEX®: For those who want to continue walking comfortably on mild terrain forever

As I felt in last year's comparison test, the enveloping fit and soft feel of the upper were outstanding this time too. It was arranged for walking the long Tour de Mont Blanc, and as it incorporates the technology of trail running shoes into its design, the design is designed to be conscious of fatigue-freeness, such as the flexibility of the upper and high cushioning, making it easy to move your legs and you can enjoy walking purely. Of the three drawbacks, it has a weak grip on wet terrain, and I feel like I'm a bit unfavourable when it comes to hard terrain and changes in the up and down. Although it is weak against tough terrain of the three, it can be said to be the easiest pair of shoes that can walk, run, and relax in the world, as they are worn all day long.

X ULTRA 2 GORE-TEX®

SALOMON

17,820 yen

410g

"SALOMON HIKE+ STATION Iiyama" is open for a limited time!

SALOMON HIKE+ STATION Iiyama, the first SALOMON rental store that offers outdoor shoes, mainly outdoor shoes, has opened at the Shinetsu Narago Activity Center, an outdoor base based at Iiyama Station.

Iiyama is Nagano's representative outdoor field. Iiyama is rich in nature, home to the Shinetsu Trail, a long trail that represents Japan, and the Chikuma River (Shinano River), the largest river in Japan. Not only can you enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, but you can also enjoy hot springs and gourmet food, this area is a great location not only for hiking but also for the plush elements. The Hokuriku Shinkansen has opened, making it possible to get there from Tokyo in less than two hours, and access has been significantly improved.

Shinetsu Nature Village Activity Center offers rentals of trekking wear, backpacks, mountain bikes, and more, making it an outdoor base facility that allows you to enjoy activities easily without having to carry large luggage. you can rent SALOMON hiking and trail running shoes, including the OUTpath introduced this time, for a limited time period until October 22nd,

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to try out the latest shoes while enjoying the refreshing nature of autumn. This fall, I'll be playing around with Iiyama wearing SALOMON shoes.

Rental deployment model

• OUTpath GORE-TEX®
• XA PRO 3D GORE-TEX®
• X ULTRA 2 GORE-TEX®
• SENSE PRO MAX

SALOMON HIKE + STATION Iiyama

• Address: 772-6 Iiyama, Iiyama, Nagano Prefecture, 389-2253, Iiyama Station, 1F, Shinetsu Nature Village Activity Center
• Time: 8:30am-6:00pm
• Phone: 0269-62-7001